Home > Jeff Schultz > Archives > 2008 > July > 28 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USStick a fork in Braves, they’re done
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The day after a second straight meltdown in Philadelphia, the Braves put two more players on the disabled list. This time it was just their best starting pitcher and their best position player.
So much for the post-season tease.
Nobody’s even debating any more that it’s over. Not Chipper Jones, who said circumstances and “all the rumors floating around here” dictate that “we’re already pointing to next year.” Not Frank Wren, the general manager, who said “a half-dozen” roster players are the subject of trade conversations and that, yes, discussions have been stepped up in the last 24 hours.
Manager Bobby Cox would sooner bite down on a cyanide capsule before admitting in July that it’s over. But when asked if his players required any sort of pep talk before the start of a homestand, he said: “I’ve already talked to them.”
When?
“In Florida [last week]. What’s there left to say? Who are you gonna yell at?”
The Braves have 57 games left, concession speeches notwithstanding. But take a good look. A team so many expected could compete for a title — and might have, if not for the smell of napalm in the clubhouse — is further away than any of us could have imagined.
The reasons go beyond the possible career wraps of John Smoltz and Tom Glavine. They also go beyond the latest pitching casualty, Tim Hudson, who went on the disabled list with elbow problems and will be examined in Birmingham by Dr. James Andrews, who really should just move his practice here to save the team mileage.
(In a good year, maybe Hudson only has inflammation. Given this season, expect word to come down of an amputation.)
The real state of the Braves? Consider the ones who aren’t injured. Mark Teixeira: packed. Will Ohman: on several teams’ hot list. Jeff Francoeur, Mark Kotsay and Kelly Johnson: given circumstances and logic, all likely are part of trade discussions.
To recap, that’s first base, second base, center field, right field and a key member of the bullpen. It doesn’t mean all will be traded. But if all are available, doesn’t that speak volumes about the future?
Like the rest of Atlanta, the Braves are covered with “For Sale” signs. The difference: Wren absolutely will move some property. Trade talks have been going on for weeks, he said.
But: “We’re in a position now to take those conversations further.” That wasn’t so subtle.
“When you come out of spring training and you feel like you have a good team, the last thing you want to do is get to Aug. 1 and trade parts of that team away,” Wren said. “That’s not the reason we do this [job]. But when you’re faced with it, you want to get the best return.”
Monday was like a bad, pre-1991 flashback. St. Louis led 8-0 in the fourth earning before Cox walked to the mound carrying an urn to sweep up the remains of starter Charlie Morton.
Before the season, the only guy less on the radar than Morton was the catcher he was attempting to throwing to, Clint Sammons. Sammons was replacing the slightly concussed Brian McCann, who isn’t on the disabled list but is mumbling something about being late for a tea party.
The Braves blew leads of 9-3 and 5-0 in Philadelphia and lost, 10-9 and 12-10. At least they didn’t keep anybody in suspense Monday. The Cardinals led, 9-0, about the time Wren learned of Hudson’s ominous MRI.
“Throw a yellow flag for piling on,” he said.
Jones somehow managed to stay off the DL until Monday. But his right quad and left hamstring hurts, and he couldn’t even hit off a “T” the other day. It’s so over, and Jones knows what’s coming.
“There’s three teams in front of us in the division, and the likelihood of all three of them collapsing is not probable,” he said. “The brass has to make the decision: Do we make trades?”
Easy answer.
Permalink | Comments (140) | Post your comment | Categories: Braves/MLB
Comments
By Raleigh Dog
July 28, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this
Bring back Ted and Jane and Jimmy Carter!
By Wings fan in Ga.
July 28, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this
Who is Jess Schultz? You didn’t get some kind of ‘operation’ did you?
By Dan B
July 28, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this
first
By Blue water
July 28, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this
Sale or give Cox away. Anybody can get in the hall of fame just by being in a place forever. His loyality is stupid. he would be gone if it was my money.
By Scooter
July 28, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this
Ring looked good tonight didn’t he. Peteetong man.
By Firetheoldfool
July 28, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this
The best thing the Braves can do is get rid of Bobby Cox.
By roman88
July 28, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this
these braves are too mildmannered and businesslike, find someone who will defend their teammates, get in someones face, this bunch doesn’t seem to care, when was the last time you saw a braves fight, better teams have bitter rivals and nearly fight all the time, but not atl, the phillies and mets are enemies, and it gets heated with them, just get someone with some fire, and desire to win and hustle, golden boy needs to go, and gotay, norton, kotsay, tavares, miller for sure.
By nelson
July 28, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this
Atlanta needs to renew ,goodbye to glavine, smoltz & hampton and to chipper to change to texeira dbacks or Boston better to dbacks Chad tracy and to be new 3r baseman of braves and please they remove from the 2009 pendleton & mc dowell
By Tom
July 28, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this
Looks like Murphy and his whole dang family moved into the Brave’s clubhouse this year. Whatever could go wrong has, now we’ll see something we haven’t seen in a long time - the Brave’s out of it by August 1 and selling off everything anyone will buy. I just hope we have the same kind of results the Marlins have had when they do this thing - a World Series Title!
By justin
July 28, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
When does football season start?
By Sean A
July 28, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this
As I come to see, they need to trade Tex, but only under a possibly good enough trade. Te Diamondbacks trade possibility isn’t enough, they need to accept a deal from the Los Angeles Dodgers for 1B James Loney because he would be a perfect fit for the Braves. At 24 and not a free agent till after 2014, it’s perfect. But if the Braves can’t get anything better than that, I don’t see any accomplishment in trading him now when they’ll get as much out of it as they will with 2 draft picks for next season. Just let him wait it out and we’ll see what happens.
I mean the Braves have enough talent in the minor leagues to put at 1B, like Jayson Heyward. But just for next year and maybe the next, just someone who could fill the void in possibly till Heyward gets called up.
Trading Kotsay, Ohman, or Francoeur isn’t any bad idea also. Ohman and Kotsay will be free agents and Francoeur can be used to get what he’s worth now. His days are outnumbered if you ask me.
But overall I have to say this about it all and what will happened over the next few months that could change everything:
The added salary Atlanta will get.
Liberty Media will give the Braves 20+ more in the payroll meaning the Braves could go out and possibly get someone like CC Sabathia or Ben Sheets to elp the rotation. Also, they will have so much cap room open for next season. With Smoltz and Glavine looking like they will retire, Hampton’s contract expiring, etc. The Braves added with the new payroll will have somewhere to nearly 60 million open. That’s enough to get a big bat and pitcher.
We know this year has been a wreck for us Braves fans. But just think about this: 2009 will be pretty bright for the Braves.
By cityofdecatur
July 28, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this
borrow my yamulke and put it on the reflection off that head is blinding me. my wife says it’s like the seventies and eighties @ this time of year it was wait till next year. and spring training was this could be the year. right this year really hurts. enjoy football season.
By Truth Will Set You Free
July 28, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this
Jeff, I’m not the only one to notice, but have you?? When the Braves were staging that rally on Sunday did you check expression out on Larry’s face. He has one interest now “I have enough at bats let’s not do anything dumb and I’m the 2008 NL Batting Champion.
If the game would have been 12-11 Philadelphia top of the 9th, bases loaded and 2 outs and Corky Miller due up—Somehow I don’t think we are seeing a Kirk Gibson type limp climbing out of that dugout. He is GREAT!! BUT he is now, always has been a DOG, and a boorish one at that.
By Star of the Zanarkand Abes!
July 28, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this
When does baseball season start? I mean REALLY??
By Sean A
July 28, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this
As I come to see, they need to trade Tex, but only under a possibly good enough trade. Te Diamondbacks trade possibility isn’t enough, they need to accept a deal from the Los Angeles Dodgers for 1B James Loney because he would be a perfect fit for the Braves. At 24 and not a free agent till after 2014, it’s perfect. But if the Braves can’t get anything better than that, I don’t see any accomplishment in trading him now when they’ll get as much out of it as they will with 2 draft picks for next season. Just let him wait it out and we’ll see what happens.
And also. It’s not Cox’s fault everything has gone wrong, it has been the injuries. So cut some slack for Cox.
I mean the Braves have enough talent in the minor leagues to put at 1B, like Jayson Heyward. But just for next year and maybe the next, just someone who could fill the void in possibly till Heyward gets called up.
Trading Kotsay, Ohman, or Francoeur isn’t any bad idea also. Ohman and Kotsay will be free agents and Francoeur can be used to get what he’s worth now. His days are outnumbered if you ask me.
But overall I have to say this about it all and what will happened over the next few months that could change everything:
The added salary Atlanta will get.
Liberty Media will give the Braves 20+ more in the payroll meaning the Braves could go out and possibly get someone like CC Sabathia or Ben Sheets to elp the rotation. Also, they will have so much cap room open for next season. With Smoltz and Glavine looking like they will retire, Hampton’s contract expiring, etc. The Braves added with the new payroll will have somewhere to nearly 60 million open. That’s enough to get a big bat and pitcher.
We know this year has been a wreck for us Braves fans. But just think about this: 2009 will be pretty bright for the Braves.
By joey
July 28, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
hopefully TEX will bring us some pitching and an outfielder that can hit and stay healthy. The injuries are staggering to say the least. Smoltz, Soriano, Moylan and Kotsay were the biggest blows to this team to date… I hope we do not get in the rut of selling every year and have a revolving door roster. It is hard to be a fan that way…
By cutty
July 28, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this
Jeff, why don”t you really say what’s on your mind? Please allow me. Baseball is hopefully in the post steroids era. Symptomatic of steroid use is premature breaking down of body functions. I”ve coached high school baseball for nearly 30 years, and the pressure most of my former players faced in college to “juice” was overwhelming. I can only imagine what it’s like in pro ball.I say that only to speculate that A] Cox is a steroids era manager and is unable to play the brand of baseball that requires hit and run, suicide, steal,etc. that this era demands. B] Maybe all the injuries aren’t just the luck of the draw.I have nothing but respect for Bobby Cox, but I respect the game more. What I”ve seen the last few years makes me wonder when, not if. the Braves should hold a future hall of famer accountable to the same standards the rest of us are.
By jeff
July 28, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this
The Braves have not been in a worse situation since they started winning in “91, but anyone could have seen this coming from as early as spring training. If they had to rely on Smoltz, Glavine and Hampton to carry their rotation, that would be fine if it was 1998, but it is 2008 and anyone who expected this trio to remain healthy must be related to Bobby Cox. How the team has not sunk to the level of the Nationals or the Mariners is a revelation but there is still time this season for that to happen. The regulars should be at best bench warmers and the bench warmers should be in the minors. Cox has shown that this team has passed him by. He shows no innovation and no bold moves. The team is as predictable as they are bad. Francquer has become a total bust in the mold of Andrew Jones. Their best set-up man(Ohman) and their best hitter and all around player will probably be traded since the Braves refuse to entertain thoughts of spending enough money to keep either one of them. Chipper looked shot before he went on the DL.It seems obvious that he is no longer capable of remaining healthy or productive for a full season. In short, this team, more than any other, needs a massive overhaul. If they refuse to keep and sign Tex and Ohman they might as well start from scratch and hire a new manager to build aroung Jurgens, Escober and McCann. As it stands now, the players have lost all heart and any sense of competitiveness. Whatever Cox is saying to his team , his message is not getting through to the players. That is the major sign of a need to change the skipper.
By Robert S
July 28, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this
Nice to see you can put a humorous face on a very unfunny season, Jeff.
Now we get to see what Trader Frank is made of…..
….and hopefully when all is said and done he accidentally trades Bobby Cox to the Beijing Bombers for a plate of Kung Pao Chicken and a side order to be named later.
By Anthony
July 28, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this
It’s all sad news today, but that Morton in the urn line might be my favorite quote from a sports column ever.
By hop
July 28, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this
it was over in may for the braves and how much longer will atlanta have to put up with the liberty owners from of all places denver!
it is time to clear the decks and steal a page from the marlins who do quick well in fire sales.
By RichmondBrave
July 28, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this
OMFG I am really having a hard time with this. The time has finally come that My Braves are reverting to being my father’s Braves. Getting hammered every night and selling off the only good parts at the end of July. We can try and put a happy face on and look forward to next year, BUT Wren is not going to be able to rebuild this team in one year. All of our Major League ready players are here now, and we suck. Atl has totally turned into loserville USA!
By roman88
July 28, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this
jason heyward is an outfielder, playing here in rome, and he’s doing great , but he’s at least 1+ yrs away from atl, this freddy freeman is also good but has alot of errors at first base.
By jimcpa
July 28, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this
72% of the braves payroll is now on the d/l…
By Truth Will Set You Free
July 28, 2008 11:33 PM | Link to this
Now you got people thinking sabathia and Sheets can be lured down here. These guys want the MONEY sure, but after you have enough for next 4 generations you THEN think about winning. You AIN’T winning a World Championship in anything in Atlanta—only been done once in 42 years by 4 combined franchises,and this isn’t your daddy’s NL East.
By Bama1
July 28, 2008 11:37 PM | Link to this
Now is the perfect time to reload. When the season is over hire a new young mgr to jump start these new player and lets roll. We need new blood the old Cox way don’t work anymore. Just look at the Mets with a new no nonsense manager. Win 14 out of 18 and go from 4th to 1st. also put the fear of God in his All-star SS. What has Bobby done lately, let Jeff stay in every game hitting 186 since his return from AA. What a Joke for jeff and BC. McGuirk is one big problem. He knows nothing about hiring a manager or players. What a shame to be a Braves Fan.
How many times this year did Bobby Cox put his best nine on the field?
By roman88
July 28, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this
at least we got jurjens and campillo for bright spots next yr, itta be nice to get roy halladay, or matt holliday to bolster the outfield, maybe this liberty group will spend some to build the team back up, it’s alot better than being owned by the spirit group, maddux has a good era dispite the win-loss record too, atl is one team he’s said he’d come back to, in addition to the west coast teams. much love for smoltz but i don’t see him making it back or for much longer
By Chuck Uga
July 28, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this
LET THE TRADING BEGIN!!! Teixeira for starters, and then throw in Carlyle, Boyer and Ring for good measure. Bobby, you have one more year (and tell him that AHEAD of time).
By Bryan
July 28, 2008 11:53 PM | Link to this
A) Trade Francoeur, let Tex go, Johnson eh no feeling put Corky Miller down put him out with Bobby Cox on Bobby’s horse farm. Francoeur is decent in the field but man he’s as bad as Andruw Jones when it comes to batting. Kotsay I want to like but I am a little tired of seeing fly balls land in center field like tonight, maybe we’re all just spoiled from Adruw.
By D
July 28, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this
D_ _ _ Jeff, amputation?!?! Good line. Anyway folks, how many teams ahead of us has lost their 1st, 3rd, 4th, and now possible 2nd starter to the DL for 60 days or more and their top position player to injury for 15+ games this year? Unless Jesus Christ himself manages this injury depleted team there is absolutely NO way this team could win with the injuries they have suffered. I have been critical of Cox at times but over the long haul you cannot argue with the results and for the last 17+ years he has won more games than anyone in baseball. Cox has done an excellent job keeping the Braves even within striking distance to this point, however it is over and this season is not on Cox. It is just bad luck and it’s now time to make moves to help us in the future. It hurts, but this is just the way the ball bounced for 2008. Let’s see what moves are made before the trade deadline and conutinue to move forward.
By gayle
July 28, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this
In reality, the Braves have not been competitive for some time. All of the band aids to repair the lineup, rotation and bullpen have been just that.
Now would be the time that all of the prospects dealt over the past few years would be coming into their own and with a young and energetic manager like Fredi Gonzalez or Ned Yost to guide them.
The last true clubhouse leader, one who really spoke his mind, was dismissed to Cleveland. There is no room for more than one voice in this clubhouse.
Now the sins of the past have come home to roost and it will be more than a year or two before this team is competitive again. Because the fans and the media set the bar so low for this team, there was no real motivation to go to the next level when the team had the players to do it.
So the manager with the plethora of cute nicknames and the dubious record of ejections was cemented in place and the fate of the team secure. As long as the Braves could get into the playoffs, that season was considered a success - even if it ended in the first round with the opponent celebrating on our field.
Joe Torre had a run like that - and a few more titles than Booby - and he got booted. Cox should have been gone after getting swept in the ‘99 World Series.
And for the Cox apologists, while I agree the rash of injuries are not his doing, you have to acknowledge that counting on two 40+ pitchers and one who hurts himself shaving as the core of your rotation are decisions that are his and no others.
Do you think that if Booby didn’t want Smoltz or Glavine or Hampton that there is anyone in this organization to overrule him - the annointed “manager for life?
This disaster is his doing more than anyone else.
By cfc
July 29, 2008 12:05 AM | Link to this
Injuries obviously didn’t help, but the blame falls squarely on Bobby/Mngment. 1) No fire in anyone’s belly. I’m going to puke when I here a player say “we need to get hot soon” or Frenchy’s “yes it was a tough loss, however at 4-2, it can still be a good road trip”. 2) Attrocious Fundementals. What did they do in spring training or in the minor league system? No one can get the bunt down. No one hits behind a runner. Dumb throws, and of course Kelly’s one handed dropped pop up against the Phillies that was really God telling me I didn’t need to invest in August and September tickets. 3) Bobby totally mismanaged the pitching staff. I could give 20 examples this year. Leaving Boyer in Saturday with several lefties to face Dobbs. Or the day Acosta was left it to serve up 2 two run dingers to lose to Florida. 4) Where are the other coaches? Does anyone position fielders? Does Terry Pendelton get a bonus when batter swing at the first pitch?
Fixing this team is more than a couple of players. The leadership and overall mentality must change. We are 5 games under .500 for the past 2.5 years. 212-217. This is not a slump or bad stretch. This is exactly what this team is. 432 games of absolute mediocrity.
By justafan
July 29, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this
gayle, great blog, I agree 100%.
Bobby don’t have a horse farm…its a dog farm.
By ronp
July 29, 2008 12:15 AM | Link to this
Because of injuries, we’ll never know how good (or bad) is this team..without Hudson, Smoltz and Chipper, we’re going nowhere. Losing Moylan and Diaz didn’t help either.
The team is not doing well because of poor performance…they aren’t doing well because their key players are injured…
Therefore, it makes no sense to strip down this team. For all we know, they might be 10 games ahead if everyone were healthy. We’ve got a great based upon which we can build.
Stay the course for next year…pay the price (stop whining) and sign Tex…get everyone healthy..retire Glavin and Hampton and use their salaries for a first class outfielder…sign Campillo and Jurgens for the long term…have patience with Francoeur and Kelley..they are young and yet to blossom.
Atlanta fans simply don’t understand Bobby Cox…he’s the glue that holds the fabric together…a definite Hall of Famer and one of the best ever baseball managers. Give him a talented or healthy team and he will give you a championship…don’t they get it?
By Gregory M Smith
July 29, 2008 12:15 AM | Link to this
Bama1 u A-hole if its a shame to be a Braves fan go somewhere else!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Wilson
July 29, 2008 12:15 AM | Link to this
The Braves outfield runs around like the Keystone Kops.
You know it’s getting bad when the female ushers with their 60-inch hips have to try to get the crowds cheering!
By Curse Buster
July 29, 2008 12:18 AM | Link to this
Anybody remember the Jeff Schultz’s official hire date at the “Fishwrapper?”
He’s like the Cubs Billygoat… Jeff Schultz = a curse on Atlanta…
Fire Schultz end the curse
By david
July 29, 2008 12:38 AM | Link to this
There is the Gwinnett Braves to look forward to in 2009.
By Bama1
July 29, 2008 12:38 AM | Link to this
gregory m smith, I’ve been a season ticket holder for 12 years. How many damn tickets have you bought a-hole. put up or shut up. Its a shame to watch BC pick his nose.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2010)
July 29, 2008 12:59 AM | Link to this
The Braves are more than done, they are finished as contenders in the forseeable future. 2009 is looking very bleak right now. Cox has definitely overstayed his welcome, time for the old goat to be put out to pasture.
The front office is in absolute disarray. The handling of Jeff Francouer was an absolute joke. To many excuses from to many people and nobody wants to be held accountable.
Leo Mazzone, Stan Kasten, Dayton Moore and many others knew when to man the life boats. Meanwhile, Captain Cox is going down with ship.
By Larry
July 29, 2008 1:53 AM | Link to this
There is no bigger disgrace in retaining Senile King, aka Bobby Cox, in all of sports. Been avid Braves’ fan since watching Milwaukee in ‘57 World Series in Yankee Stadium as 5-year-old, and 1958.
Injuries, sure a factor. Brain-dead inflexible 67-year-old mutt as manager? The coup de grace…kills team quicker than bullet to head by officer commanding firing squad. Makes worse decisions daily than captain of Valdez in Alaska…
From bunting with second hitter in first inning to playing Frenchy day-in, day-out shouting to world, “I’m smart enough to ressurrect a dead horse,” Brain-Dead Bobby surrenders four-five outs per game. Seen enough swings on pitches over his head? Not Bobby…just wait a few innings and Frenchy comes up again……swinging like a monkey trying to kill a buzzing mosquito….
Seen Royce Ring surrender runs in key spots, every single outing? Not Brain-Dead Bobby….Royce is lefty, a must-use vs. lefty hitter…. See Jo Jo (Touchdown) Reyes walk 6-7 batters per start? Not Bobby…. See broke-down Julian Tavares surrender rockets to opposing batters like a NASA test range? Not Bobby… See the same mistakes, the same one-run losses, the same poor decisions, day after day after day….flipping a coin at random would improve Brain-Dead odds… This team, this organization, these house mutts like T. Moore are a disgrace.
#Even hillbillies selling ‘shine know s** from shinola…enough already. Fire Bobby, buy him a Rolex, and pay for that nice nursing home to talk to other shell-shocked old timers ‘bout the Battle of the Bulge………
By Check this out
July 29, 2008 3:23 AM | Link to this
daily minor league report
By BeachDreams
July 29, 2008 3:57 AM | Link to this
Braves get a clue. This is a once in a lifetime oppertunity. Don’t blow it. Lets review we can’t compete this year fine, so lets bite the bullet and reload for 2 or 3 years down the road. I knonow you want to make a charge again next year because losing sucks A nd Bobby , Smoltzie and Chipper dererve one more shot. Fine thats what we did this year and look at us now . Its simple we don’t have a Yankee size payroll so the fact is we can’t retool for next year. Lets look at the Tex trade rumor on Yahoo Braves are said to be asking for a prospect and either Conor Jackson or Chad Tracy in return. Braves are said to be asking for a prospect and either Conor Jackson or Chad Tracy in return. Braves are said to be asking for a prospect and either Coner Jackson or Chad Tracy in return. WRONG……..WRONG……WRONG…………. Tracy will make 4.5 million next year in the last year of his contract. And Jackson will be eligible for arbritration Neither of these guys are a corner stone player not even a nice piece when you figure in the contract. My god we are sitting in the cat birds seat with Tex, Kotsay, KJ, Prado, Infante and Gotay. One big centerpiece best player left at the deadline in Tex and thats huge. And several small pieces in the other guys that you would be surprized of how any teams mightwant and the prospects that they will give up for middle infielders. I see several of them going. And then every body is lining up for our bullpin pitchers caution caution Will Robinson We have to get a ton in return for our pitchers thats what wins and folks we are loaded. Lets brak it down. Starters first JJ no way no way no way Ok thats easy thae rest of the rooks won’t bring much in return so we should hang on to them let them take their lumps and re visit this winter. The bullpen is where it gets dicey Ohman has never been much before this year hes pitching great every body wants a hot lefty so lets be smart and get as much as we can. Gonzo and Soriano if they can stay healthy can rule the 8th and 9th inning for years to come. There is a risk with both but the up side is sky high. I say keep um unless we get an ofer you just can’t say no to Is there another JJ out there. Thats what I’an talking about. The rest of the pen get prospects not merginal players we will lose in a year or two. And thats what our mind set needs to be we don’t need any more marginal players we can’t afford in a year or two One last thought no trades for starting pitching with the A,s they all blow upo check it out. Don’t know what the hell kind of program they got over their in moneyball land for starters but it’s not very good on their arms. So lets go Bravos lets make some headlines I trust our scouts Prospects Prospects Prospects Prospects Prospects
By reality
July 29, 2008 3:59 AM | Link to this
What a bunch of maroons. How about we keep the team and trade all the fans? Been watching since 57, sure you have. How about a bullpen? Ever thought of that? In the 70’s and 80’s the Braves were usually out of it Opening day. The team made some gambles on some older players and they did not make it. When they are mathematically eliminated, it is over. Not now, Mr. been watching since ‘57. Now back the team, Bobby Cox, and STFU.
By Larry
July 29, 2008 5:43 AM | Link to this
Jeff,
I do not need to explain my question as anyone with more than a double digit IQ has understood this need for years. So, my question: when will you or another AJC writer have the flat out courage to stop playing it safe and say it’s time for Bobby Cox to retire? This team and attendance has been spiraling down for years and even though I have had season tickets in the “Hank Aaron” section for years I have lost absolutely any desire to fight the traffic to watch a Bobby Cox managed team! Seriously, is getting media access to the Braves’ culbhouse buffet that important to prevent some honesty from AJC writers?
Next year I do not want to see Glavine, Smoltz or any other has beens; I’m ready for a fresh start all around with new faces and that includes the old buggar picker!
By London Correspondent
July 29, 2008 6:03 AM | Link to this
Typical hater posting:
Seen Royce Ring surrender runs in key spots, every single outing? Not Brain-Dead Bobby….Royce is lefty, a must-use vs. lefty hitter…. See Jo Jo (Touchdown) Reyes walk 6-7 batters per start? Not Bobby…. See broke-down Julian Tavares surrender rockets to opposing batters like a NASA test range? Not Bobby…
That would be the same Royce Ring who didn’t allow an inherited runner to score in 25 consecutive appearances. That would be Jo Jo Reyes, a young starter who, as young starters do, has had good outings and bad outings - you all want us to bring up the young players, don’t you? Well, this is what you get. And, finally, that would be the same Julian Tavares who has given up 1 hit in the 6 appearances since his (admittedly bad) first one.
Bobby sees a lot more than you do, Larry, and he’s usually right.
By Jeff R
July 29, 2008 6:55 AM | Link to this
You know, I thought today’s athletes were suppposed to be better conditioned than any previous generation of athletes. And yet this rash of injuries to the Braves. When I was a kid, at least it seemed that players were more durable - that or they played through a lot of injuries that sidelines high paid players today.
By kevin
July 29, 2008 7:08 AM | Link to this
Hey season was done after 2001 after cox choke playoffs n never been back…And yes he was at fault if was not beatin his wife up he be better job…And no larry jones(chipper) will not win battin title anyway not enough at-bats.Franky needs be sent back to AA ball now….and AAA next year at gwinnett Braves…sorry Family of franky u son stinks now….So Wren Fire Bobby cox n TP n also Pitchin Coach…he not doin it.
By Don Keeballz
July 29, 2008 7:21 AM | Link to this
CAN SOMEONE PLEASE GET THE BRAVES A STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING COACH? I would rather have the Corky from Life Goes On playing catcher than our Corky.
By TNJeff
July 29, 2008 7:43 AM | Link to this
Gayle
Great comments as usual - which do I want more - Cox fired or you added to the AJC staff?
By 59bulldawg
July 29, 2008 7:45 AM | Link to this
OK … if you give us back our Richmond Braves I’ll take away the curse!
By John
July 29, 2008 7:57 AM | Link to this
Remember when Kelly Johnson dropped the final out against Philly? That play set the tone and the team has looked lost since.
As we all know, injuries have been the real story. No team in baseball could overcome what the Braves have been encountered. On top of that, Hudson and Smoltz are probably lost for 2009. If Braves fans think this year is bad, just wait until next year. They have a good farm system, but the impact players are a few years away. Here’s to another failed Atlanta franchise.
Why is everyone blaming Bobby? He doesn’t make roster moves, blame Wren. Remember this is the same Frank Wren, who ruined the Baltimore Orioles a decade ago. “Fire Wren” is what everyone should be saying. For the past 17 years everyone has claimed his greatness and now everyone (fair-weather fans) are bashing him. Typical, uh?And while your at it please fire TP, this guy has done nothing but set-back Frenchy and others.
If the Braves trade Frenchy, they will regret it. Sure, he is in a nasty funk, aka “The Andruw Jones Syndrom”, swinging at anything. I think he wants out of Atlanta (i.e. Hossa, Childress, JSmith, every Falcons player, and next year Kovy). The Braves dug this hole, now its their responsibility to find the right solution. Just because they will have a boat-load of money to spend doesn’t mean they will spend it. Remember, since Ted sold the team, Atlanta franchise owners have been cheap, with exception to Arthur blank.
To end on a good note, 2010 looks bright.
By Bill in VA
July 29, 2008 8:10 AM | Link to this
Who is Gayle? Give us more! You have it right. Agree with TNJeff.
By Miller Time
July 29, 2008 8:11 AM | Link to this
Well, we saw it in the early 80’s(83-90)and it is here again. Biggest difference is that there is no Smoltz, no Glavine, no Avery, no Maddox, no nothin’ in the foreseeable future for the hill in Turner Field.
Get something for Tex, but I hate to see him go.
Same for Chipper, he’s 35+ and the clock is ticking. Does he want to be the face of this disintegrating franchise any more?
Frenchy is French Toast here…he’ll bring a premium.
Corky Miller; is that his real name, and does he really play for us?
The old adage is about being strong up the middle. Pitching is noticeably absent here, but we have McCann, Escobar, Johnson and Kotsay, and that’s a good place to start.
Oh John Schuerholz, where art thou?
By Elton
July 29, 2008 8:12 AM | Link to this
A spot of bad luck eh ole chap. Headed back to the other side of the pond now. Best of luck and all that rot.
By Realist
July 29, 2008 8:18 AM | Link to this
We all know there have been injuries, but there have also been 22 one-run losses. If Cox can’t take any blame for the way this season is going, then he doesn’t deserve any credit for the 14 division titles either.
By Firetheoldfool
July 29, 2008 8:19 AM | Link to this
Larry Your 1:53am post is the best I have seen on any of these AJC blogs. You are dead on. The old fool BC is the PRIMARY reason the Braves have not been to the playoffs in the last 3 years. I am seeing more and more posts saying that Cox should go. Unfortunately, the Braves management says the old fool can manage as long as he wants. Anyone else with any sense can see he needs to be put out to pasture. I can’t take seeing that booger picking fool in the dugout anymore!!!
By Keeping It Real
July 29, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this
The Braves were done once they signed Tex for a year and a half; elected to go with an old pitching staff and a linup with no speed; brought in a centerfielder with a bad back, traded off some good young talent(Salty for one); and were purchased by an owner not willing to put up the bucks to sign good talent. I will bet the bank that Francouer and Escobar will be gone at the first opportunity. Frankly, considering all the injuries, I am surprised that they are less than ten games out. They will be 20 games out before this disaster of a season is over.
No Tiger and no Braves. Well there is still the Falcons and Matt Ryan. YIKES!!!!!!! What am I saying?
By Doug
July 29, 2008 8:21 AM | Link to this
I prefer it this way. Better to be done in July than be the best team in the NL going into post season and then lose in the first round to the wild card team year after year. All the talk of how great the Braves were how is it the Florida Marlins have more World Series titles than the Braves? Besides, it’s time for football!
By Arkie Fan
July 29, 2008 8:39 AM | Link to this
Time for a change - YES. Why get rid of Cox? He is a Hall of Fame Manager. The Cox era is over. New FIRE - Blood is needed. A manager that has no loyalties to present players - a perform to play manager. What I have seen of players that have been brought up from our farm system is very poor. Last night I was calling the location of every pitch Morton threw. His form and pitch release point were way off. Do we have coaches? Plan for the future - NOW. Looks like we traded all our top young players at key positions. Rebuild from the farm system up. I see no quick fixes, too many holes in the ship. JS, lets see if you have the guts to rebuild or just try for another patch job.
By GABULDAWG
July 29, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this
I see a fire sale coming. The Braves became famous by building from within. I think you will see some major trades upcoming. Tex is definitely gone but I’m not sure that is the right thing. Unless the talent we get is equivilent to 2 first round draft picks. We’ve had some luck in the first round and, while it is a crap shoot, you can typically get some major talent at that level. I don’t think trading Frency is the right answer. His value is down. Resign him for now and let him get his confidence back. It’s not like it will hurt us to have him playing right now. We’ve already done it for the whole season. Our future looks good in the field but we need some pitching to start developing in the minors. Put the young guys in there and let’s start building them up for the future.
By Ron Jon
July 29, 2008 8:48 AM | Link to this
Anyone could have seen this coming back in the spring. Smoltz was hurting even then. Glavine, Hampton?? Please…. The biggest disappointment is the disintegration of Jeff Francoeur. Just two years ago he was being hailed as “The Natural”…a pity he either can’t see the ball or doesn’t know the strike zone. But I wouldn’t trade him. His return value at this point is greatly diminished. Work on him in the off season to try to revive his career. But, get what you can now for Tex and Kotsay and start targeting a hitter and a starting pitcher in free agency over the winter. And, sadly, it’s time for Bobby Cox to give it up. His time has definitely passed.
By ben
July 29, 2008 9:01 AM | Link to this
This team was done when ole Kelly Johnson missed the little league pop up against the Phils at home that cost them the game. There needs to be some changes in the organization. Just look at the trade for Tex. Those players traded for him are doing very well and now Tex will probably be gone in a few days.
By DHD
July 29, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this
I love it!! we haven’t been in this position since 1990. This is a chance for us to get some young studs in here and let them develop. if it is done correctly, we can compete next year. The Marlins are an example for us. This is going to be a fun week.
By dgroy
July 29, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this
Who cares? Football’s right around the corner.
By bedsheet
July 29, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this
Since the beginning of he 2006 season, the Braves are 30 games behind the Mets and 18 games behind the Phillies. The most disturbing stat is we’re only 8 games better than the Marlins since 2006. They were 71 and 91 last year. The Braves have been a .500 third place team for three years. What did we really expect to see this year? We hoped to see a veteran pitching staff work its magic one more time, but knowing full well that the odds of that happening were a long shot at best. The injuries this year have been bad for sure, but this team lacks the basic fundamentals to compete for a title. The proof of the lack of fundamentals is all the 1 run loses. This teams just can’t do the little things needed to win ball games. The most frustrating thing I have seen all season happened again and again in this weekends games. An opposing pitchers walks a Brave’s batter and doesn’t look good doing it, and the next Brave batter swings at the first pitch he sees and grounds into a double play or pops out ending a potential rally. I like to think I know a lot about baseball, but we have to depend upon the Brave’s management to make some very hard decisions in the next few days. I hope they realize that whatever road they have taken in the past 3 years isn’t working.
By SOUTHERN BOY
July 29, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this
MCJERK! YOU ARE THE MAIN REASON (“LIBERTY BOY”) OF THIS DISASTER! WHAT DO YOU ACTUALLY DO FOR A LIVING? GET OUT OF THE WAY AND LEAVE YOUR AIR-GRABBING SALARY SO WE CAN HIRE SOME SCOUTS!
By TheCutMan
July 29, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this
Arguably,
Teix is the best player on the team right now and yet, we hear no apparent moves to re-sign the guy. You would think that exloratory talks would have happened by now?
Alas, this isn’t the way it works, I guess? Trade off your best asset before making a strong attempt to keep him for the long term? OK, fine.
By Firetheoldfool
July 29, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this
Larry. Don’t let these AJC buffet-eating idiots sway your opinion. Again, you are dead on. Cox needs to go. Maybe you ought to be the manager!!!! OK, LONDON CORRESPONDENT. Maybe Ring and Reyes had good outings in the past. However, does’nt the manager have the responsibility to see that when they are getting their brains beat out now that it is time to make a change OR not put them in in key situations. Jeez.
By RJP11
July 29, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this
Can we trade owners? Give us a friggin payroll to compete with, faceless corporate entity engaged in strategic tax machinations!
There shouldn’t be any damn corporate ownership in pro sports … consistent success requires a person or a group of individuals with deep pockets & a huge ego(s). Corporations don’t, & frankly can’t, really care.
By WILLY
July 29, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this
OK, ALL YOU ARMCHAIR QUARTERBACKS THAT KNOW MORE ABOUT MANAGING A BASEBALL TEAM THAN BOBBY COX AND COULD HAVE PREVENTED ALL THE INJURIES OR MORE THAN LIKELY WOULD HAVE KNOWN TO TRADE ALL THESE GUYS BEFORE THEY GOT INJURED, PLEASE MEET ME AT THE STADIUM AS SOON AS THE BRAVES GO BACK ON THE ROAD. WE PLAN TO BURN THE DUGOUTS AND PLOW UP THE FIELD TO PLANT CORN. YOU GUYS ARE PANIC-STRICKEN AND THINKING WE SHOULD BE IMMUNE FROM BAD LUCK. LET’S JUST GO AHEAD AND CUT OUR NOSE OFF TO SPITE OUR FACE. WHAT A BUNCH OF WHINERS! WE NEED TO JUST REGROUP, LOOK AT SOME OF OUR YOUNGER TALENT, PLAY THE BEST BASEBALL WE CAN WITH WHAT WE’VE GOT, ENJOY THE REST OF THE SEASON AND QUIT THINKING ABOUT SELLING THE FARM JUST BECAUSE WE’VE HAD A BAD SEASON. THE BRAVES ARE STILL MY TEAM AND I’LL GO WITH THE PLAYERS THAT WE HAVE. THEY’VE MADE ME PROUD IN THE PAST AND THEY’LL MAKE ME PROUD IN THE FUTURE. I’M WITH THEM THROUGH THE GOOD TIMES AND THE BAD. I’M NOT GOING TO WHINE AND I’M NOT SMARTER THAN BOBBY COX ABOUT BASEBALL.
By Gray Mule
July 29, 2008 9:53 AM | Link to this
This year’s Braves team remind me of the Mets in their 1st year of existence. Their manager, Casey Stengle was quoted, “Don’t any one here know how to play this game?” Wait for the three run homer? Why, when you don’t have the homer hitting lineup to do this. Galls me when we see professional players, paid a pot full of $$$$ and they can’t lay down a bunt. Can’t hit and run because they can’t make contact or they haven’t got the speed to run - or both. Braves current 25 man roster is made up of old guys, past their prime or youngsters, not yet ready for prime time. And, just maybe a few in between. Time for change? You better believe it. Gray Mule
By Bahama man
July 29, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this
Thank You Willy, You’re right lets not quit on this team. To Gayle, Shut up and go back in the kitchen and bedromm where all women belong a sprts discussion is no place for a woman they know nothing and deserve less you are a disgrace to your gender and should be made to obey!!!
By steve
July 29, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this
I am curious why of all the teams mentioned as having an interest in Tex, the Chicago White Sox have not been mentioned. They are in a tight race with the Twins. Tex would be a significant upgrade to what they have had at first base all year long.
To me, they are the team that would benefit most from a trade with the Braves. It will be interesting to see how this plays out.
By Elmer
July 29, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this
Thank you in caps, Willy.
By don
July 29, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this
Some thoughts (and facts):
Bobby Cox didn’t cause the injuries or make the ill-fated trades. He deserves to come back.
Francoeur is going through his first bad spell. He is still a major part of the future. Don’t make the mistake of trading him.
Don’t rush prospects like Hanson and Heyward. They need time to develop. Also, don’t trade them like you did all the prospects in the Teixeira failed rental.
Some say Teixeira had a good BA with RISP. A more telling statistic would be to see how he hit when the result of the game was still in doubt. A homerun when the team is down 9-1 late aint a big hit.
Clean out the veterns and free agents to be but do so for prospects not rentals like Bay.
In the end, it may well be Saltalamacchia, Andrus, Feliz, Harrison, and Jones for Chad Tracy and a year with a losing record from the rental, Teixeira. Texas is thrilled and will be so for many, many years. The management of the Braves should be declared incompetent for that trade.
Dump Schuerholz, Wren, et als.
By Drixie
July 29, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this
“Campillo and Jurrgens and here come the surgeons” should be our 2007 pitching staff motto. Stick a fork in this year and start the rebuilding. We’ve got the makings of a good young staff with Jair, Hudson, Campillo, Morton, and Reyes. Take a look at the first year or so for Smoltz, Maddux, and Glavine and you’ll realize that 2007 won’t be a total waste if we get the young arms some innings. Move Chipper or McCann to first, keep Escobar at short, and make everyone else expendable. Hate to bandwagon, but Corky Miller should not be on any big league roster. If everyone was healthy (big “if” in 2007) we would have won the weak NL East by a wide margin.
By Drixie
July 29, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this
“Campillo and Jurrgens and here come the surgeons” should be our 2008 pitching staff motto. Stick a fork in this year and start the rebuilding. We’ve got the makings of a good young staff with Jair, Hudson, Campillo, Morton, and Reyes. Take a look at the first year or so for Smoltz, Maddux, and Glavine and you’ll realize that 2008 won’t be a total waste if we get the young arms some innings. Move Chipper or McCann to first, keep Escobar at short, and make everyone else expendable. Hate to bandwagon, but Corky Miller should not be on any big league roster. If everyone was healthy (big “if” in 2008) we would have won the weak NL East by a wide margin.
By Drixie
July 29, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this
Oops! I meant 2008!
By Phil
July 29, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this
Let me ask you Bobby Cox supporters a serious question. How long would he have lasted as manager of the Yankees or Red Sox? 2-3 seasons at most and you know it. They don’t put up with mediocrity which is where we have been for the languishing for the last several years. Give Cox a gold watch, a plaque, whatever and let’s move forward.
By willdave
July 29, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this
Jeff Schultz, you are probably right on this one. The Braves have been stricken with too many injuries to key players to mount a serious run for the division title this year. The likelihood that all three teams ahead of them might collapse over the final two months is practically nonexistent. Too bad we must raise the white flag with 57 games left in the season.
By Kelley
July 29, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this
Jeff: Is there anyway to block the people who post this insanity about blaming Bobby? Let’s REALISTICALLY look at the situation: 5 of the 5 projected starters: injuried. 2 or the 3 outfielders: injuried. Short and 3rd: injuried. McCann: Run over at the plate Bullpen: Two of what could have been “closers”: injuried. The “Golden Boy” Frenchy: Sent down b/c of his lack of hitting And it’s the manager’s fault that the team is not in first??? Give me a break! It’s doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out why the season has been so bad (good thing, I don’t think a lot of rocket scientists frequent these blogs).
Bobby is great, but he does not work miracles. He cannot lay hands on his players to make them well. All of you can continue to post the ignorance about Bobby, but it won’t do any good. He will stay, thank goodness. People in baseball respect the heck out of him.
Any of you ever think too that you just can’t win every year and we were spoiled for 14 straight?
I hope they trade Tex, just so they don’t have to deal with Boras. Pack up Frenchy, I didn’t like his attitude. Kelly Johnson can go too if it were up to me.
By I luv bobby cox
July 29, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this
I am a washed up player and I luv playing for Cox. Why, because no other manager would put me in the lineup, or hand me the ball when the game is on the line. I have an era of over 20.00 the last month, but Bobby knows talent when he sees it, and he knows I only throw one or two bad pitches each time I take the mound. He also knows that I usually throw 2 or 3 balls right down the middle when I am ahead in the count. He will tell the media that I pitched a great 1/3 of an inning, and that if I had only located the 3 pitches, i would have gotten out of the inning with only giving up 4 runs instead of 7. Good ole Bobby, he is the best manager in baseball, truely a player’s manager. I wouldn’t want to pitch for any other manager, actually I wouldn’t be allowed to pitch for any other manager. Signed, Ring, Boyer,Morton, Acosta,Buddy C, and Good Ol JoJO.
By Dave in Arizona
July 29, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this
“So the manager with the plethora of cute nicknames and the dubious record of ejections was cemented in place and the fate of the team secure. As long as the Braves could get into the playoffs, that season was considered a success - even if it ended in the first round with the opponent celebrating on our field.”
Man, are you right on. I still remember those hideous lineups against the Yankees and Padres, with worthless Keith Lockhart right in the middle of them. People were always so pleased to win the division, and made it akin to winning the World Series. I remember idiot fans on these boards actually saying they’d rather win divisions than the World Series.
Injuries are a convenient excuse. Cox has tons of excuses for everything. This team has been crap for a few years now. They have no heart and no fire. They remind me of the businessmen who stop playing golf for a few minutes to make a couple of deals and if the deals turn out right, it’s completely by accident. Once in a while the ball drops right for the Braves, but with this team no lead is ever safe, and they can’t create runs. That’s why they lost so much in the post season down through the years. If Justice hadn’t homered, they’d have hauled out a Leibrandt or a Wohlers or a Reardon, and had unanimous chokes in that series too.
Since Tex is a ballplayer and shows up every night, let’s trade him. We need more guys like Hampton. What a joke of a team and organization this wreck is. It would be funny if it weren’t so sad.
By Kelley
July 29, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this
I mentioned in my last post that I didn’t think many rocket scientists frequent these blogs, but I forgot to mention that I think Willy is as smart as a rocket scientist. Great post Willy-keep me coming!
By Kelley
July 29, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this
I mentioned in my last post that not many rocket scientists frequent these posts, but I forgot to mention that I think Willy is as smart as a rocket scientist. Great post Willy, keep them coming!
By Phil
July 29, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this
Kelley
Willy is Bobby Cox’s blogger name on here.
By Jack G
July 29, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this
Fire Cox,Terry and Roger—-Hire Mattingly and let him hire coaches
By Kelley
July 29, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this
OK, yeah I noticed the type o on the first post as soon as I hit send, too late to get it back though. Didn’t mean for it to be written like that. To Phil: Bobby Cox doesn’t read local media, so no, Willy is not him. Willy’s just another educated person out there.
By will
July 29, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this
this braves team is pathetic,our LITTLE LEAGUE KIDS FROM GEORGIA HAVE WON THE LAST 2WORLD SERIES,COLUMBUS AND WARNER ROBINS,AND THESE PATHETIC PLAYERS IN ATLANTA YOU CALL BALLPLAYERS,BULL, THEY PLAY LIKE A BUNCH OF GIRLS,THEY NEED TO EWEAR SKIRTS,MCANN IS DOWN AND THE BRAVES DO NOTHING ABOUT IT,THE BRAVES NEED 2STARTERS THAT ARE GOOD,YOU PLAY THE METS 9MORE TIMES , GET 2GOOD STARTERS AND WIN THIS YEAR,THIS TEAM SCORED 19 RUNS IN 2DAYS AND LOSE BOTH GAMES BECAUSE THE BULL PEN IS A BUNCH OF GARBAGE, TAKE NOTES FROM THE MARLINS, AND BREWERS ,ATLANTA UPPERS,WHOS MANAGING ,YOST,AND COXS OTHER COACH,LOOK AT THERE RECORDS AND COXS,COX HAS TO GO,THIS YEAR ATLANTA WILL NEVER WIN AGAGIN WITHTHAT IDIOT, HE RUINS PITCHERS ,TOTALLY , NOWONDER BOYER IS PATHETIC,AND CHIPPER RETIRE,THE BENCH IS NOPLACE FOR YOU.
By jgon
July 29, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this
I say get Andy back, i miss those strike outs in the clean up position. To bad Frenchy refused to sign, maybe he could bat after Andy. johnson frenchy, tex. and the pitchers will be gone. Think 2009.
By Doug in Tucson
July 29, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this
This club is just loaded with players who are old (baseball standards) or are suited as bench players not starters. Good idea to try getting some prospects from teams actually in the race for post season play.The only place the Braves look solid at are Catcher and shortstop .. that is proof it’s time to back up the bus and rebuild. Maybe some kids from Richmond or Greenville could get some experience towards the future, that is why they were signed. I don’t fault Cox, he was fine when the Club was on cruise control… he is no different, just has alot of marginal talent to work with. A new hitting & pitching coach would help in MHO. We are all disappointed and frustrated, hopefully all the players feel the same as us diehard Brave fans do.
By vhhsawb
July 29, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this
The “good luck” that followed us in all those championship years is paying us back. All you whiners think this is a quick fix issue. I respect your right to express your opinion but this is “real” life. Stuff happens. I am a Braves fan and will continue to be one. Loyalty DO